Much talking is the cause of danger. Silence is the means of avoiding misfortune. The talkative parrot is shut up in a cage. Other birds, without speech, fly freely about.
It may be doubtful, at first, whether a person is an enemy or friend. Meat, if not properly digested, becomes poison; But poison, if used rightly, may turn medicinal.
The holy man, though he be distressed, does not eat food mixed with wickedness. The lion, though hungry, will not eat what is unclean.
Great affection is often the cause of violent animosity. The quarrels of men often arise from too great a familiarity.
When many work together for a goal, Great things may be accomplished. It is said a lion cub was killed By a single colony of ants.
Even in decline, a virtuous man increases the beauty of his behavior. A burning stick, though turned to the ground, has its flame drawn upwards.
If a wise man behaves prudently, how can he be overcome by his enemies? Even a single man, by right action, can overcome a host of foes.
By depending on the great, The small may rise high. See: the little plant ascending the tall tree Has climbed to the top.
With gifts, you may gather your enemies about you. When giving nothing, even your own family will leave.
If one is intelligent and applies himself well, what can he not accomplish? Even small bands of people, I have heard, have defeated whole armies.
When a broken tank is filled with water, It certainly will leak on every side. Weak men who grow rich Seldom leave an inheritance.
